By Zainab Shafiq 
Pakistan’s pace attack suffered a blow earlier this year when Haris Rauf dislocated his shoulder during the Pakistan Super League (PSL) season nine. This injury forced him to miss the ongoing T20I series against New Zealand.
However, there’s positive news for the young pacer and Pakistan fans alike. Rauf has completed his rehabilitation and commenced gym training. He remains on the selection committee’s radar for the upcoming T20 World Cup in June.
“We are closely monitoring his progress,” said selection committee member Wahab Riaz. “He has started bowling in the nets, and we will keep a close eye on him during practice sessions. We are hopeful that he will be fit for the England series next month.”
The deadline for submitting the T20 World Cup squad is May 1st, with changes allowed until May 25th. However, any changes after that require approval from the ICC. This timeframe provides some breathing room for Rauf’s recovery.
In the lead-up to the World Cup, Pakistan are scheduled to play three T20Is against Ireland and four against England next month. Following these series, the team will depart for the United States from England.
While the squad itself hasn’t been announced yet, the coaching staff is expected to be confirmed after the conclusion of the New Zealand series. Notably, Gary Kirsten and Jason Gillespie have been finalized as the white-ball and red-ball head coaches, respectively.
It’s important to note that Rauf’s central contract was terminated earlier this year for refusing to participate in the Test series against Australia. However, the new PCB chairman, Mohsin Naqvi, has since restored his contract.
With his recovery progressing well, Haris Rauf is determined to reclaim his spot in the national team and contribute to Pakistan’s T20 World Cup campaign. However, only time and his performance during practice sessions will tell if he’ll be able to overcome this injury setback and earn a place in the final squad.
Also, see:
Delhi Capitals’ Mitchell Marsh ruled out of IPL 2024